National Cookie Day, celebrated every year on December 4th, invites everyone to indulge in one of the world’s most beloved treats. But cookies are more than just delicious snacks—they carry a rich history and have become a key part of holiday traditions.
The Origins of Cookies
Did you know that the word “cookie” comes from the Dutch word “koekje”, which means “little cake”? According to the Oxford Dictionary, cookies were originally less sweet than the versions we know today. In fact, in some countries, cookies resemble semi-sweet crackers. In many parts of the world, especially in the UK and Commonwealth countries, cookies are referred to as “biscuits.”
Types of Cookies to Enjoy on National Cookie Day
- Bar Cookies
Bar cookies are made by baking batter or dough in a flat pan and cutting it into squares or rectangles. Classic examples include brownies and blondies. They’re quick, easy, and ideal for sharing!
Try: Chocolate Chip Blondies or Raspberry Jam Bars. - Drop Cookies
These cookies are formed by dropping a spoonful of dough onto a baking sheet. They spread out during baking, creating soft and chewy treats.
Popular example: Chocolate Chip Cookies. - Filled Cookies
Filled cookies feature a delicious filling, such as jam, chocolate, or cream, sandwiched inside or piped into the dough.
Examples: Fig Newtons and Jam Thumbprints. - Molded Cookies
Molded cookies are made by shaping the dough by hand or using molds to achieve specific shapes. They often hold intricate designs, making them a visual delight.
Examples: Peanut Butter Blossoms or Snowball Cookies. - No-Bake Cookies
Perfect for those looking to avoid the oven, no-bake cookies use ingredients like oats, peanut butter, or coconut and are chilled to set.
Try: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies. - Pressed Cookies
These cookies are made using a cookie press, where dough is forced through shaped plates to form intricate designs. They’re especially popular during the holiday season.
Example: Spritz Cookies. - Refrigerator Cookies
Also called icebox cookies, these are made by chilling dough into a log and slicing it before baking. This method ensures evenly shaped cookies every time!
Example: Pinwheel Cookies. - Rolled Cookies
Rolled cookies involve rolling out dough and cutting it into shapes using cookie cutters. These cookies are ideal for decorating and are a staple for holidays.
Popular example: Classic Sugar Cookies. - Sandwich Cookies
Sandwich cookies consist of two cookies with a delicious filling, such as frosting, marshmallow, or jam, in between. They offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Examples: Oreos or Whoopie Pies.
Cookies: A Year-Round Favorite
Cookies play a significant role in American snacking culture, with the average American consuming 200 cookies a year—about 4 per week! The upcoming holiday season sees cookies at the center of many family traditions. People bake cookies as a tradition, decorate gingerbread houses, or get creative with ornately designed sugar cookies.
Beyond the fun of baking, cookies are often shared as gifts. In fact, December is the biggest month for giving baked goods, with many people gifting homemade treats to friends, family, and even co-workers.
A Sweet Tooth: Holiday Indulgence & Hidden Treats
According to a survey conducted by OnePoll for Sanders® Candy, people are most likely to indulge in sweets during the holidays, with 76% of respondents admitting to enjoying more treats during the festive season. It also uncovered some sneaky behavior—48% of respondents have hidden their favorite treats to avoid sharing with others!
The most common hiding spots include:
- Behind other items in kitchen cabinets (61%)
- In a cabinet that doesn’t typically store food (52%)
- In bathroom cabinets (49%)
Additionally, the survey revealed that eight in ten respondents associate indulging in desserts with their fondest holiday memories, whether enjoying cookies with family or sneaking a sweet treat when no one is looking. Interestingly, 46% admit to often eating treats meant for other family members!
During the holiday season, respondents reported eating an average of:
- 26 cookies (homemade or store-bought)
- 25 pieces of candy or chocolate
- 12 slices of pie
Cookies Are Delicious, But Are They Nutritious?
While cookies are delightful, they’re typically high in sugar and fat. Though ingredients are evolving with more health-conscious options, cookies remain an indulgence rather than a nutrient-dense food. But don’t worry! You can still enjoy National Cookie Day by making smarter choices when baking or buying treats.
Here are some tips for healthier cookies:
- Add natural sweetness: Use fruits like dates, applesauce, or mashed bananas to reduce added sugar.
- Incorporate vegetables: Believe it or not, grated carrots or zucchini blend seamlessly into cookie dough without altering the flavor.
- Go whole grain: Swap refined flour for whole wheat, oat flour, or oatmeal to boost fiber and nutrition.
- Control what’s in your cookies: Baking at home gives you control over ingredients, allowing you to reduce sugar and fat.
Spread Cookie Joy This Holiday Season
Whether you prefer gingerbread, chocolate chip, or no-bake cookies, baking is a fantastic way to celebrate National Cookie Day. Consider hosting a cookie exchange, baking with family, or gifting homemade goodies to spread cheer.
Indulge responsibly and try to incorporate some healthier ingredients if possible. But most importantly, enjoy your favorite cookie—after all, National Cookie Day only comes once a year!
What kind of cookie will you bake (or sneak) this year?
Written by Elizabeth C. Shephard
PEANUT BUTTER OATMEAL BITES
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2/3 cup unsweetened applesauce or 2 large very ripe bananas (or half of each)
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 cups quick oats
3/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, apples, dates, etc., or a mixture)
1/2 cup chopped nuts
pepitas (pumpkin seeds), or sunflower seeds (or a mixture)
DIRECTIONS:
1) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2) Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
3) In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter, applesauce or bananas, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth. Add the oats, dried fruit, and nuts, stirring until combined.
4) Drop the dough into equal sizes onto the baking sheets, about 2 tablespoons per cookie. Flatten the top with the back of a spoon.
5) Bake 12 to 16 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown and the dough is set, but soft.
6) Remove from oven and cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.
7) Transfer to a cooling rack to finish cooling. Store in an airtight container. Use within four days or freeze.
Recipe created by the UK Cooperative Extension Office
References
Chad. “What’s Cookin’?: Try These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bites!” WBKR, 19 Aug. 2024, wbkr.com/peanut-butter-oatmeal-bites-recipe/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral.
“Cookie.” Oxford Reference, www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803095636982#:~:text=The%20word%20was%20introduced%20into,word%20in%20South%20African%20English. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.
“Log into Facebook.” Facebook, www.facebook.com/UKHES/photos/the-august-recipe-from-the-2024-food-nutrition-recipe-calendar-is-peanut-butter-/1256717798858733/?_rdr. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.
National Cookie Day – December 4, www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-cookie-day-december-4. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.
“Organized and word smithed my content and research” prompt. ChatGPT 21 Oct. Version, OpenAI, 21 Oct. 2024, chat.openai.com
Swns. “Here’s How Many Cookies Most People Eat during the Holiday Season: Poll.” New York Post, New York Post, 10 Nov. 2023, nypost.com/2023/11/10/lifestyle/heres-how-many-cookies-most-people-eat-during-the-holiday-season-poll/.
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